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Eovaldi, Hernandez absences create opportunities

3/13/13: Nathan Eovaldi pitches five strong innings, giving up just one run on three hits and striking out four

By Joe Frisaro
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MLB.com |

WASHINGTON -- The Marlins are opening their season with two-fifths of their expected rotation back in South Florida treating injuries.

Nathan Eovaldi and Henderson Alvarez were placed on the 15-day disabled list on Sunday. Each is dealing with mild right shoulder inflammation.

Chances are both could miss the entire month of April

"Right now, we're trying to get them pain free," manager Mike Redmond said on Monday, noting he has no timetable for their returns. "There is some tendinitis with both of them. We've got to make sure those guys are pain free and build back up. Start playing catch. Start long tossing.

"I don't know the time frame of how long it's going to be, but probably a few weeks before those guys are built back up and ready for game action again."

Eovaldi, initially lined up to be the No. 2 starter, was enjoying a terrific Spring Training, posting a 3-0 record with a 3.65 ERA in 24 2/3 innings.

Alvarez, slotted as the fourth starter, threw 12 2/3 innings in the spring for Miami, and he also competed in the World Baseball Classic for Venezuela.

With them out, Kevin Slowey has moved into the No. 2 spot. Alex Sanabia was called up from Triple-A, and he will pitch on Friday at the Mets.

The biggest news was the promotion of top prospect, Jose Fernandez, who will make his MLB debut on Sunday at New York.

"There are opportunities out there," Redmond said. "Guys benefit from injuries. I've said it as a player, and I'll say it as a manager. When guys get hurt, it creates opportunities. I'm not going to sit here and dwell on the fact we have two starters down.

"Is it going to be tough? Sure. But there are guys out there. Somebody is going to step up. I'm excited to see who that is going to be."